The chief provincial public health officer advises that, to date, there have been no confirmed cases of severe respiratory illness in Manitoba.
People returning from Mexico or the United States but who are not sick do not need to visit their health-care facility simply because they have been travelling. Individuals who have been travelling but are not ill do not need to stay home from work or school.
If you have symptoms of a respiratory infection:
• Stay home from school or work and limit contact with others to reduce the chance of infecting them.
• Reduce the spread of germs by avoiding touching your eyes, nose or mouth and by washing your hands frequently.
• Contact your health-care provider or Health Links–Info Santé if your symptoms get worse or you are concerned that you may need care.
As with any infectious respiratory disease, Manitobans are encouraged to use routine precautionary measures.
• Cover a cough by coughing into your elbow or sleeve or using a tissue to cover your nose and mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• Wash your hands often with soap and water, especially after you cough or sneeze. Alcohol-based hands cleaners are also effective.
• Maintain your health by making healthy food choices, being physically active and getting enough sleep.
Provincial officials are continuing to work with Manitoba health-care providers and regional health authorities to watch for cases of severe respiratory illness due to human swine influenza.
For links to more information, visit the website at www.manitoba.ca. For personal advice on self-care or when to seek further care, Manitobans can phone Health Links–Info Santé at 788-8200 or 1-888-315-9257 (toll-free).
For current information on travel health notices, warnings and advisories, visit:
www.phac-aspc.gc.ca/tmp-pmv/pub-eng.php.
